In the present study, we identified the natural compound curcumin to be an effective G551D-CFTR activator by cell-based fluorescent assay and electrophysiological measurement. We demonstrated that curcumin can restore the impaired chloride conductance of G551D mutant CFTR. The activity is rapid, reversible, and cAMP-dependent. Our study identified a new natural lead compound for the pharmacological therapy of cystic fibrosis caused by G551D mutation of CFTR.